Educational institutions across Ghaziabad district will remain closed from August 4 to August 12 in view of the heavy movement of Kanwar pilgrims during the ongoing Kanwar Yatra, district authorities announced on Monday. The closure applies to schools from Nursery to Class 12, while colleges, universities and technical institutions have also been directed to suspend regular classes during the period.

According to an official circular issued by the District School Inspector, the decision has been taken following directions from the District Magistrate to ensure the safety of students amid increased traffic and large gatherings associated with the annual pilgrimage. The administration noted that the main festival of Shravan Shivratri will be observed on August 11, resulting in a significant rise in the movement of devotees across the district.

The order covers all schools affiliated with the Basic Education Council, Secondary Education Council, CBSE, ICSE, Madrasa Board and other recognised education boards operating in Ghaziabad. Authorities said the precautionary measure is intended to minimise inconvenience and ensure student safety during the peak period of the Kanwar Yatra.

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The administration has also directed all government and private colleges, universities and technical institutions in the district to remain closed from August 4 to August 12. However, examinations that have already been scheduled will be conducted as planned, and students appearing for exams will be required to follow the original timetable.

Meanwhile, similar restrictions have been imposed in neighbouring Meerut district. District authorities there have ordered the closure of schools, colleges, universities and technical institutions until August 12 due to the ongoing Kanwar Yatra and the anticipated increase in pilgrim movement.

The Kanwar Yatra is an annual religious pilgrimage undertaken during the holy month of Shravan, when devotees of Lord Shiva collect holy water from sacred rivers and carry it to temples. Every year, state administrations implement traffic diversions and precautionary measures, including temporary closure of educational institutions in affected areas, to ensure public safety and smooth movement of pilgrims.

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